I Love Celebrating Benji’s Gotcha Day? Joan of Bark

On February 27, 2022, I knew my life was about to change.

There he was — a few photos in an email of a sweet boy who needed a home. The story of how Benji found his way to me is one of fate and synchronicity. I had just purchased my home, and while I was proud and excited, it felt a little lonely. I remember thinking I needed a companion… and then there he was, sitting quietly in my inbox.

One week later, Benji was home.

Every year, I celebrate his gotcha day. Cake, singing, treats, and a special meal. Nothing extravagant, just the two of us being grateful for each other. I love celebrating the wonderful things in my life, and Benji is at the very top of that list.

For four years now, he’s been my constant companion. Still staring at me. Still following me from room to room. Still snuggling as if that’s his full-time job. And I’m pretty sure he likes me.

As life changes and shifts, having him by my side has meant more than I can put into words. His presence is steady. Loyal. Comforting. He makes a house feel like home.

And of course, every gotcha day calls for muffins.

Benji’s Favorite Blueberry Muffins

Every summer, I brave the humidity and the mosquitoes to pick blueberries. I always freeze a few bags, and they come in handy for this special treat. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and are wonderful for dogs in moderation.

Ingredients

2 cups oat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
3 eggs
¼ cup honey
¼ cup safflower oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly.
Line a mini muffin pan (or regular muffin pan) with cupcake papers.
Spoon mixture evenly into papers, filling almost to the top.
Bake 10–15 minutes for mini muffins or 22–27 minutes for regular muffins.
Muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Benji knows these are technically his… but we share because they’re actually pretty tasty.

Gotcha day is about more than muffins. It’s about celebrating the days we’ve already had and the ones still ahead — full of adventure, unconditional love, and so many snuggles.

And I wouldn’t trade a single one. 🤍🐾

Final Thoughts

Gotcha days aren’t just anniversaries, they’re reminders. Reminders that love can arrive quietly in an inbox. That companionship can change the energy of a home. That sometimes the missing piece of your life has four paws and is simply waiting for you to say yes. Every February 27th, I celebrate the day Benji found me… but truthfully, I feel like I’m the lucky one who was rescued.

Adoption Note

If you’ve been thinking about adding a dog to your life, I can’t encourage adoption enough. There are so many incredible dogs waiting for homes — loyal, loving, and ready to change your world in the best possible way. Visit your local shelters, talk to rescues, and stay open. Sometimes the right dog finds you when you least expect it.